synoptic
UK: sɪˈnɒptɪk | US: sɪˈnɑːptɪk
adj. presenting a summary or general view of a whole
adj. relating to or displaying conditions as they exist simultaneously over a broad area (e.g., synoptic weather maps)
adj. (theology) pertaining to the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke)
Derived from Greek synoptikos ("seeing together"), combining syn- (together) and opsis (sight). The term originally described a comprehensive view, later specialized in meteorology (large-scale weather observation) and theology (Gospels sharing a common narrative structure). The morphemes reflect the core idea of unified vision—syn- merges perspectives, while -opt- anchors the concept in visual observation.
The professor provided a synoptic overview of 19th-century literature.
Synoptic charts are essential tools for weather forecasting.
Scholars compare the synoptic accounts of Jesus' life in the first three Gospels.
The report’s synoptic approach helped readers grasp complex data quickly.
His lecture was admirably synoptic, covering centuries of history in one hour.